The bottled water industry is a competitive market, and brands like Waiakea distinguish themselves by touting specific attributes. Waiakea is sourced from a deep well at the base of the Mauna Loa volcano in Hawaii, where it is filtered naturally through thousands of feet of porous volcanic rock. This process is central to its brand identity and is said to imbue the water with unique properties. To determine whether Waiakea water is good for you, it's essential to look beyond the marketing and evaluate the facts.
The Volcanic Filtration Process and Its Impact on Waiakea's Composition
The most significant factor distinguishing Waiakea is its unique journey through volcanic rock. This natural filtration is said to purify the water and enrich it with a blend of minerals and electrolytes. The company's website specifies that these minerals include calcium, potassium, magnesium, and a notably high concentration of silica. Silica, in particular, is highlighted for giving the water a smooth mouthfeel and is linked to various health benefits, though more research is needed.
Waiakea's Mineral and pH Profile
Waiakea is naturally alkaline, boasting a pH range of 7.6 to 8.2. The alkalinity comes from naturally occurring bicarbonate ions absorbed during the filtration process, unlike many artificially alkaline waters that use electrolysis to achieve a higher pH. A higher pH is often cited by proponents of alkaline water as a way to neutralize acid in the body, although health experts note there is not enough research to fully support all claims.
- Silica: At around 37 mg/L, Waiakea has a higher silica content than many other bottled waters. Silica is believed to support skin, hair, and nail health, and some studies suggest it may aid in detoxifying the body of aluminum, though results are not conclusive.
- Electrolytes: The presence of magnesium, calcium, and potassium helps replenish minerals lost during exercise and supports proper fluid balance. This makes it a popular choice among athletes and fitness enthusiasts who seek enhanced hydration and recovery benefits.
- Purity: The company claims that the volcanic filtration process acts as a natural shield, protecting the water from contaminants. The "young" age of the water, which takes less than 30 days to emerge from the source, means it spends less time absorbing sediments.
Weighing the Pros and Cons: A Comparison of Water Options
| Feature | Waiakea Water | Regular Tap Water | Typical Bottled Water (e.g., purified) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Artesian well on Mauna Loa volcano | Municipal water supply | Varies (e.g., municipal source, spring) |
| Filtration | Natural volcanic rock filtration | Public water treatment facility | Reverse osmosis, carbon filters, etc. |
| Alkalinity (pH) | Naturally alkaline (7.6-8.2) | Varies widely, usually neutral or slightly acidic | Varies, often neutral |
| Mineral Content | Rich in naturally occurring silica, calcium, magnesium | Varies significantly by location | Often stripped of minerals (in the case of purified water) |
| Cost | Premium pricing | Low cost | Varies, generally less expensive than Waiakea |
| Sustainability | Uses 100% rPET bottles, carbon-neutral certified | Varies, can be more sustainable depending on usage | Varies, often uses single-use plastic |
| Known Health Effects | Potential benefits from mineral content, better hydration | Highly variable, depends on local water quality | Safe, but lacks potential mineral benefits |
The Alkaline Water Debate and Waiakea
Scientific evidence on the extensive health claims of alkaline water remains limited and inconclusive. While some small studies have suggested potential benefits, such as improving digestion or bone density, larger human studies are still needed to confirm these findings. The primary health advantage Waiakea emphasizes is its natural alkalinity, distinguishing it from artificially processed alkaline waters. The logic is that the alkalinity from natural minerals is more beneficial than that achieved through electrolysis. However, the human body is remarkably efficient at maintaining its pH balance regardless of the water consumed, so the effect of consuming alkaline water might be minimal for most healthy individuals.
Ethical and Sustainable Practices
Beyond its nutritional profile, Waiakea highlights its commitment to ethical and sustainable practices, which can be part of its appeal. The company is certified CarbonNeutral® and uses bottles made from 100% recycled plastic (rPET). It also operates a giving-back program, the Kōkua Initiative, which contributes to community projects and clean water initiatives in other parts of the world. While these practices are positive, it's worth noting that any bottled water has a larger environmental footprint than tap water due to packaging, processing, and transportation.
Conclusion
So, is Waiakea water good for you? From a nutritional standpoint, Waiakea water is a safe and high-quality drinking water option. Its volcanic filtration process naturally imbues it with beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and silica, which can contribute to better hydration and potentially offer other health benefits, though more research is needed to substantiate all claims. For individuals seeking a clean-tasting, mineral-rich, naturally alkaline water and who are comfortable with the premium price point, Waiakea is a viable choice. The company's strong emphasis on ethical sourcing and sustainability also adds to its appeal. Ultimately, while it may offer marginal benefits over standard purified water, the essential hydration provided by Waiakea is similar to that of regular, filtered water. Your decision may come down to personal preference, budget, and priorities regarding environmental impact.
